The Egypt Game

This imaginative middle-grade novel transports readers to a California university town where a group of children create an elaborate fantasy world in a dusty storage yard. Led by April and Melanie, the kids invent rituals, hieroglyphics, and ceremonies inspired by ancient Egypt, building a secret society that becomes their entire world. Their creative play takes a dark turn when a local child is murdered, forcing them to confront real-world dangers that threaten their imagined sanctuary. Snyder masterfully captures the intensity of childhood imagination and the complex social dynamics of a diverse group of friends.

What makes this story so compelling is how it balances the innocence of imaginative play with genuine suspense, creating a narrative that feels both nostalgic and surprisingly tense. The characters are richly developed, each bringing their own background and personality to the shared game, making their interactions feel authentic and meaningful. Young readers who love creating their own worlds or have ever been part of a secret club will find themselves completely absorbed in this timeless adventure. The book leaves a lasting impression about the power of friendship and imagination to create safe spaces even when the real world feels uncertain.